Redknapp tips Derby starlet Hughes to play for top Premier League side

Both north-west giants are firmly in the hunt for 18-year-old Hughes, who is regarded as the most precocious young talent in the second tier.

Promotion-chasing QPR host Hughes' Derby at Loftus Road on Saturday and Redknapp, whose players will have to neutralise the young midfielder's threat, believes the England Under-21 ace will one day flourish in the top flight.

Speaking about Hughes, Redknapp said: "He's a real player for the future. He's a young talent, he's got the ability to go right to the top. He's one for the future for a top Premier League club."

Hughes, who is under contract until 2016, has made 51 league appearances having made his Championship bow back in 2011.